If you have a small window needing to be dressed, and are looking for something that can be put together quickly and inexpensively, then here is a three step tutorial for a pretty little valance utilizing vintage hankies.

Two contrasting hankies of similar size hang from cup hooks decorated with vintage buttons, giving the appearance of a valance that is “buttoned up” to the window.

Once you have gathered your materials, this project can easily be put together in an afternoon.

For this project you will need:

Three 1″ vintage buttons

Three 1″ (or thereabouts) cup hooks

Two vintage hankies of similar size and of coordinating colors

1/4 yard of 1/4″ elastic

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

1. Glue the buttons to the cup hooks

Simply center the front of the hook onto the back of the button and glue into place. I recommend using hot glue because you can hold the hook into position while the glue dries quickly.

2. Attach elastic loops to the hankies

If need be, launder your hankies by hand or using a gentle cycle setting with a detergent suitable for delicates. Line dry, and press.

Fold each hanky in half, point to point, as shown in the photo and gently crease with the iron. The scallops and edges may not line up completely, but that is ok. Just do the best that you can.

Cut four small pieces of elastic to create loops on either side of the hanky. Double the elastic and drape it over the cup hook to measure for size. My loops were cut at about 2 1/4″.

Using a needle and thread, tack the elastic onto the opposite corners of each hanky.

3. Mount your valance to the window

Using a ruler, yardstick, or tape measure, and pencil; mark the placement for each hook. Position the top middle hook directly above the center of the window, and the remaining two at the same distance on either side. Before screwing holes in your wall, use double sided tape to hold the hankies in position while you play with the proper placement. To get the angled effect shown, place the top hook higher in the center, and the side hooks a few inches lower.

Gently screw in the cup hooks, taking care not to pop off the buttons; then attach the hankies by looping them over the hooks.

A few things to keep in mind:

* While a series of hankies could be used to cover a larger window, I would recommend this valance for a smaller window. The one shown in the photo is 23″ wide.

*A vintage item is a used item and therefore may show some wear. If this bothers you, new “repro” hankies can be purchased but I wouldn’t recommend it. They are expensive and do not have the history of vintage pieces. Don’t be afraid to use something that may be creased, have loose threads, or even a few spots here and there. These imperfections tell a story and add to the overall charm. Use your creativity to incorporate those imperfections into your overall design.

*Vintage hankies can be purchased on Etsy, ebay, or at estate sales.

Don’t forget to register for the giveaway from Mary’s Heirloom Seeds co-hosted with The Self Sufficient HomeAcre. There is still time, but not much time. The giveaway closes at midnight on Wednesday and the winner will be announced Thursday morning at the HomeAcre Hop. You can click here for more details.

Also, please note that the HomeAcre Hop has moved to a new time: from now on we’ll be going live on Thursday morning instead of Wednesday evening. We’ll look forward to seeing you then!

this is one of the cutest things I’ve ever seen!! I’d love to have you link this and other beautiful posts to What to do Weekends Party also. Beautiful. what else do you have on this lovely blog? Linda and following.